Is swearing right? (Right: The conformity to the will, standards and character of God)

Usually no.

We are told to love our neighbor (Matthew 22:39), to bless those who curse (Luke 6:28), and to not employ cursing and filthy language (e.g. James 3:9-12, Colossians 3:8).

While God does use curses, they are reserved for the most extreme circumstances. His language, however, is never crude or filthy, but is only offensive/insulting to those of us who are out of step with Him (e.g. John 6:60-64) and of that which is offensive to Him (e.g. mocking of evil). Nor is being offensive or insulting His sole purpose, but such language is often used to motivate us away from evil and toward good.

Is it pure? (Pure: That which will not contaminate us—cause us to sin—if we should employ it in our own lives)

Usually swearing is not considered pure behavior.

While curses and oaths are not in themselves wrong, they are very serious matters with a weight that few understand these days. But the breaking of an oath or the misapplication of vow or curse carries serious—and sometimes deadly—consequence (e.g. Deuteronomy 23:21, Judges 11:30-39).

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Disclaimers

Most of the books reviewed for this blog are bought or borrowed from a library. However, some (usually two dozen or less) each year are given to me free from the author or publisher.

I haven't previewed every book or other work of art that I included in my monthly arts lists. Many works are included for other reasons, such as insights to culture, making them worthwhile but perhaps containing questionable content. Therefore, use discernment when listening, reading, or viewing these pieces.